In our blog this week, we would like to dive into the topic of dental implants and talk about the various ways that they can be used to replace missing teeth. According to the American Dental Association, some of the largest technological advances in dentistry in the past 40 years have been related to dental implants. Many patients complain about the difficulties that they encounter when adapting to life with removable appliances, including complete dentures and partial dentures. We are here today to talk about some of the different ways that dental implants can be used to improve both dental health and overall quality of life.
At Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, we are here to provide our patients with as much information as we can about technological advances that are being made in the field of dentistry. One way that we continue to educate our patient is with our blog. We are happy that you chosen to read our blog entry today and encourage any further questions that you may have. If you are interested in dental implants or have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us any time electronically or call (904)285-7711. If you live in the Ponte Vedra Beach area or surrounding areas and you would like to learn more about dental implant services that we can provide for you, please visit the dental implants section of our website.
How Does a Dental Implant Work?
The most commonly used dental implant today is the endosteal implant. Endosteal implants are surgically placed within the upper or lower jawbone. The implant looks like a screw, is made out of biocompatible titanium, and acts just like the root of your tooth. As the implant heals in the jawbone, it osseointegrates with your bone, which means that your body attaches to it to aid in its stability. Your dentist may or may not recommend a certain amount of healing time before the final prosthesis is attached to the dental implant. Depending on your overall treatment plan, your dentist may attach a single crown to the implant or your dentist may attach multiple crowns to the implant. It is important to speak with your dental provider and ask as many questions as possible during the treatment planning phase to ensure that you understand the procedure and will be pleased with the final outcome.
What Are Some Uses for Dental Implants?
Dental implants can be used in many different situations. They can be used in place of a removable partial dental prosthesis for patients who are looking for a replacement that does not have to be removed. Implants are also an excellent way to replace a single missing tooth that preserves tooth structure on either side of the implant. With the newest technology, we are able to make implant supported crowns look nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth. Implants are also an excellent option for retaining complete dentures. Many patients have trouble adapting to complete dentures, particularly the bottom dentures. There are ways that your dentist can adapt dentures to snap onto your implants so that they stay in your mouth more easily. Your dentist can also create what is called a hybrid denture which stays attached at all times and is only removed by a dental professional for regular cleanings. The area of dentistry that is concerned with replacing missing teeth is called prosthodontics.
What Are The Benefits of Implants vs. Other Treatment Options for Replacing Teeth?
Many patients are able to benefit from dental implants. In the past, patients who lost a single tooth would have a bridge made to replace that missing tooth. When making a bridge, however, tooth structure has to be taken away from teeth in front of and behind the missing tooth in order to accommodate for the bridge. It is better for the adjacent teeth and the entire dentition to place an implant instead of a bridge when all of the surrounding teeth are healthy. Additionally, many patients complain about the difficulties that they face with removable partial dentures and complete dentures. Patients may have trouble eating, drinking, and speaking with removable dentures. When implants are used in combination with bridges, partial dentures, or complete dentures, patients are able to live a happier and healthier life.
Most patients who would like to replace a missing tooth or teeth can benefit from dental implants. Here at Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, we are committed to providing our patients with the most up-to-date treatment options that dental technology has to offer. If you live in the Ponte Vedra Beach area or surrounding communities and are interested in dental implants, please feel free to contact us at any time electronically or call us at (904)285-7711 to schedule a consultation.